Chidimma Adetshina Vows Not to Give Up Amid Deportation Case Delay
Miss Universe Nigeria and former Miss South Africa finalist Chidimma Adetshina has spoken out for the first time after her immigration case was postponed by a Cape Town court.
The case, involving the Department of Home Affairs’ attempt to detain her for possible deportation, has been delayed until Wednesday, August 19.
The postponement follows a Western Cape High Court ruling that magistrates do not have the authority to issue immigration detention warrants, stating that only immigration officers have that power.
Home Affairs argues that Adetshina does not have the required documents to remain in South Africa and has allegedly refused to surrender her South African passport. The department is seeking her detention while arrangements for deportation are considered.
However, Adetshina’s legal team says it is prepared to proceed with the case and has submitted documents outlining steps she has taken to regularise her immigration status.
The 25-year-old told the court that she has no other home apart from South Africa, while authorities presented documents showing she has the ability to reside in Nigeria.
Adetshina was arrested last month after authorities alleged she entered South Africa illegally through the Lebombo border from Mozambique and was living in the country without valid immigration status.
Her immigration controversy began in 2024 when she entered the Miss South Africa competition, leading to public calls for Home Affairs to investigate her citizenship status.
Following the latest court proceedings, Adetshina shared an emotional message on Instagram, revealing the personal toll the legal battle has taken on her.
In a video, she admitted feeling exhausted, burnt out and depressed but insisted she would continue fighting.
“Will I give up? NO!” she wrote, expressing determination despite the challenges.
The case is set to return to court as Adetshina continues her legal battle over her right to remain in South Africa.
